Increase In Sight

Eleven-year-old Raymond Seals came to U.F. to watch his older brother graduate; Raymond said he wants to follow in his footsteps.

"I would like to come here and play some football," he said. "Go Gators!"

With tuition at U.F., Florida State University and the University of South Florida possibly increasing 15 percent, that could be a problem for some future Gators, Seminoles and Bulls, especially those students who must work their way through school or rely on loans.

"It's a sorry state of affairs when you have to go up 15 percent every year," U.F. Freshman Mike Davenport said.

Many students at the University said they are not concerned for themselves.

"I feel bad for the students that come from out-of-state," U.F. Freshman Reggie Wilson said.

It could be worse however. The spike could grow to 40 percent, if the State Legislature does not otherwise raise tuition at the state-run universities over the next three years. According to faculty members, more money is definitely needed.

"The universities need more resources, I see it everyday," U.S.F. Professor Bob Friedman explained. "The classes are too crowded, we need more buildings, and we need more faculty. I would love to see us be able to provide an A-1, high quality experience for all students."

Even with a 15 percent increase, the cost of higher education in Florida would still rank close to the lowest in the country. Some parents said they would not mind an increase, if the schools could show they are using the money properly.

"Hopefully, they're going to put that additional funding to great use," Norm Noble said. "I think my child attending a distinguished university, such as the University of Florida, is what is important to me."

The bill now rests in the hands of Governor Crist, but Raymond said he is not going to worry about fee hikes this weekend, he is just concentrating on being proud of his big brother.